Ethics in Tarot Reading
- Molly Book
- Aug 6
- 2 min read
Tarot is powerful — not just because of the insight it offers, but because of the trust that comes with it. Whether you're reading for yourself or others, how you hold space matters.
Ethics in tarot is all about respect, clarity, and compassion.
Here’s how I approach ethical tarot reading, with real care for boundaries, consent, and responsibility.

Boundaries: Know Where You Begin and End
✋Healthy boundaries protect both the reader and the querent.
Don't read without being asked. Reading someone’s energy or cards without their permission crosses an energetic line. Even if your intentions are good, it’s important to respect personal space—seen or unseen.
Be clear about your limits. Are there questions you won’t answer? (e.g., legal, medical, third-party spying) Make that known upfront. You’re not obligated to go beyond what feels right for you.
Protect your own energy. Ground before and after, take breaks, and know when to say no. A burnt-out reader can’t serve anyone well
Consent: Always Ask First
🙏 Consent is sacred in tarot work.
Explicit permission matters. Whether it’s in person, online, or through a message, always get a clear “yes” before reading for someone.
Clarify the intention. Ask what they hope to explore. This invites the querent to be an active participant, not just a passive receiver.
Respect emotional readiness. Sometimes people want answers they’re not ready to hear. Check in gently: “Would you like to go deeper into this, or pause here?”
Responsibility: Be a Channel, Not a Judge
🧘 Tarot isn’t about being “right”—it’s about being present.
Hold space, not power. You're a messenger, not a fixer. Offer guidance, not control. People should leave a reading feeling empowered, not dependent on you.
Avoid fear-based interpretations. Even “tough” cards (like Death or The Tower) can be read with compassion and context. It’s your job to deliver insight with care.
Encourage self-trust. The best readings remind people of their own wisdom. A good question to close with: “What feels true for you right now?”
Ethical tarot isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence. When we read with integrity, we turn tarot into a healing space where truth, boundaries, and respect all co-exist.
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